A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Glasgow vs. Zurich for Nightlife, Music, Old Town, and Attractions

Should you visit Glasgow or Zurich?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Zurich, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a friendly, cultural, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Glasgow and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or Zurich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Glasgow than Zurich, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Glasgow is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Zurich is known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Zurich is more touristy than Glasgow and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Glasgow is popular for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also home to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

How is Glasgow different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zurich and Glasgow. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Glasgow or Zurich?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Zurich and Glasgow.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Glasgow can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Is the Food Better in Glasgow or Zurich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Is Glasgow or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Glasgow is a world class party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Is Glasgow or Zurich Better for Music?

Glasgow is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Glasgow Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Is Glasgow or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Many visitors go to Glasgow to see the historical old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Zurich?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Zurich specifically to go shopping. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Glasgow is a great destination for shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Is Glasgow or Zurich Better for Families?

Zurich is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zurich. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Is Glasgow or Zurich Better for Couples?

Zurich is great for couples. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Glasgow is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

Is Glasgow or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Glasgow and Zurich are good places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Glasgow. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Zurich is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Glasgow or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Zurich is a great destination for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Students come from all over to stay in Glasgow. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Is Glasgow or Zurich Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Glasgow and Zurich both offer great public transit to get you around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Glasgow. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

Public transit in Zurich is fairly effecient and thorough. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Is Glasgow or Zurich a more walkable city?

Glasgow and Zurich are great when it comes to walkability.

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

Zurich is very walkable. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Glasgow Worth Visiting? and Is Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Zurich?

In either Glasgow or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than Glasgow because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glasgow, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Glasgow. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Zurich, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Glasgow. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zurich that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Glasgow if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Zurich.

One day in Glasgow or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Glasgow. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Glasgow or Zurich?

Glasgow is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glasgow. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic destination of Glasgow. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Glasgow and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Glasgow much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Glasgow would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Glasgow and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich than you might in Glasgow.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Glasgow Expensive? and Is Zurich Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Zurich?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow and Zurich, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Glasgow or Zurich?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Glasgow or Zurich in the Summer?

Both Zurich and Glasgow during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Glasgow is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 15°C (59°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in July than Zurich. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Zurich in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Zurich. Many visitors come to Glasgow in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Glasgow is cooler than Zurich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during autumn. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Zurich. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Glasgow or Zurich in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Zurich. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. Glasgow can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Glasgow is around the same temperature as Zurich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Glasgow in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Zurich averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun.

Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the winter. Glasgow usually gets more rain in January than Zurich. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Zurich in the Spring?

Both Zurich and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

In April, Glasgow is generally much colder than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 7°C (45°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during spring. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Glasgow usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zurich. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Glasgow